Binge Worthy: On Republic Day, Revisit Films Asking Hard Questions About Social Inequity, Discrimination

On the occasion of Republic Day, here is a look back at important cinematic works that addressed how discriminatory social behaviours and systemic problems target identity, gender and race. Axone Premise: This 2020 film directed by Nicholas Khargonkar treats a North-Eastern dish as a catalyst to reveal entrenched prejudices against “the other.” The film takes an insightful look at the behaviours that target anyone whose ethnicity, appearance, food habits or social stature are different than ours. Where to watch: Netflix Aligarh Premise: Hansal Mehta whose latest OTT series ‘Scam’, revealed layers of corruption in the banking system, also made the poignant 2005 biographical drama, ‘Aligarh.’ ‘Aligarh’ focussed on the tragedy of an academician Ramchandra Siras, whose privacy is invaded and career destroyed because of his sexual orientation. Where to watch: Netflix Masaan Premise: This Indo-French production was director Neeraj Ghaywan’s powerful comment on the tragedy of love in the time of caste divides, rampant moral policing, gender discrimination and more. ‘Masaan’ got the small town ethos just right and took care to look squarely at social behaviours that deny so many Indians the right to bond across economic, social and caste divides even today.